The $500 million B-21 Raider nuclear bomber will not receive an unmanned modification

The U.S. Air Force refused to create an unmanned version of the B-21 Raider strategic bomber.

Here's What We Know

The United States Air Force wanted to develop a full-fledged unmanned version of the advanced B-21 Raider aircraft. This was one of the operational requirements announced by Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall in 2021. However, the idea had to be abandoned, as an evaluation of the project demonstrated its unprofitability.

Representatives of the US Air Force for three days discussed with the partners the future of the unmanned version of the B-21 Raider. Despite the refusal to produce the drone, the department decided to develop unmanned aerial vehicles that will support the manned version of the B-21.

The key task of the drones will be to distract enemy aircraft and air defenses. The appearance of drones on the battlefield should significantly improve the survivability of the strategic bomber.

Flashback

Creation works of the B-21 Raider has not yet been completed. The first flight the plane will make in 2023. The cost of one unit of B-21 will be about $ 500 million. Almost $50 billion is allocated for the program to develop a nuclear bomber.

Source: Air Force Magazine

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